A BLACKFORD school has been dubbed as outstanding by church inspectors, just two months after receiving the same accolade from Ofsted.

A BLACKFORD school has been dubbed as outstanding by church inspectors, just two months after receiving the same accolade from Ofsted.

An inspector representing the diocese of Bath and Wells rated Hugh Sexey Middle School as outstanding overall and outstanding in each of the three categories.

The report, from an inspection carried out in January, praised the school's family ethos saying: "The school is rooted in Christian teaching and values, which has enabled virtually all pupils to flourish and underpins the excellent curriculum provision and the inclusive care for all."

Headteacher David Cameron said: "I am really pleased to have received the outstanding grade to add to the one we received from Ofsted. It is a rare 'double' and a tribute to all. I would like to thank parents, pupils and governors for their support and long may this continue."

The school has 678 pupils who travel to the Somerset village from as far as Weston, Burnham, Lympsham, Wedmore and Axbridge.

All church schools in England must undergo an inspection by the diocese, known as the Statutory Inspection of Anglican Schools and is usually carried out close to the Ofsted inspections, which is done by the Government.